It is also hoped that a broken lift in the nightclub can be fixed to make more areas in the club wheelchair accessible, including the stage and a new sound system installed to attract high level artists, subject to funding.

Applications for grant funding to pay for the project are currently being discussed.

University of Surrey staff helped out at the venue on Tuesday November 8, working alongside the Phoenix volunteers.

Elaine McGinty, chief executive of the cultural centre, said: “Members of University of Surrey staff and our volunteers helped paint a hallway to make a blank canvas for community art to make it a really welcoming alternative entrance to the venue for people in the daytime.

“Brewers were very generous in giving us advice and discounts and have also given us some free paint that has been returned, which will really help with the next phase.”

It is an exciting time for the project as their dream is realised and the plans come together.

Even before the venue has opened its doors, it has already been advertised in the Live UK guide to the best venues for contemporary live music.